Old Northeast Tavern: Casual Pub Rooted in the Neighborhood

The Old Northeast Tavern occupies a cozy street corner in the Old Northeast section of St. Petersburg, a straight shot west of Vinoy Park.

As a business it is less than a decade old but looks – in a good way – like it's been here since Calvin Coolidge was president, and in fact the building has.

The sign over the front of the establishment and the design of the vintage building, at 7th Avenue North, create the image of a classic corner bar, the block  reminiscent of old Boston or the Jersey Shore.

For many locals, it is the "Cheers" bar for the Old Northeast, a welcome neighbor among single-family houses and townhomes. The tavern offers live entertainment on weekends and special occasions. But things rarely get loud or out of hand.

The tavern seems to cultivate a laid-back atmosphere. It is a place to meet neighbors and friends. There are 22 beers on tap, and the menu covers pizzas, sandwiches and big salads.

The place serves lunch and dinner, with the dining area offering pleasant views of the quiet street. But the bar remains open as late as 2 a.m.

Owners Bob Wareham and Mark Brindle, who also own Old Northeast Pizza next door, purchased the tavern five years ago from previous owners Dan Soronen and Sarah Potter.

“It just had a great feel,” Wareham says. “The neighborhood's great and most of our customers are regulars. It's a fun, good feel.”

Manager Matty Nigriny agrees. “It's the classic tavern and people love it,” he says. “I still have people come in and tell me they've lived in St. Pete their entire lives and never knew this place even existed.”

The building was developed in 1925 and has been home to many businesses: bar for servicemen during World War II, the N & L Diner, Ambrosia, a dance studio, a yoga studio, a convenience store and laundromat.

Nigriny talked about the qualities that distinguish the Old Northeast Tavern and make it welcomed in this residential area.

Q: What sets it apart from other restaurants and pubs?

A: I would say the menu. It's very unique, not the typical pub fare, and nothing is more than $10.

Q: The most popular item?

A: The crab cake is probably the most popular item, and it's a very healthy menu overall. Definitely different.

 Q: How's business?

 A: Business is great. The only problem I have is that I work too much.

Q: Do you see more tourists or regular customers?

A: Ninety-eight percent of our business is regular customers.

 Q: Any notable visitors?

A: We get a couple of the ballplayers [from the Tampa Bay Rays]. They come here because it's quiet and nobody bothers them.

Q: Why do people keep coming back?

A: It's off the beaten path, but once you find the place, you fall in love with it. Once you come in here and hang out and eat and meet the staff, it's pretty much automatic that you're going to be a regular visitor.